FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Sitka, October 3, 2023] - The Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association (ALFA) is thrilled to announce a $700,000 award from the Department of Energy to drive energy transition forward in the commercial fishing fleet. The project, known as ALFA BETA (ALFA Boat Energy Transition Accelerator), aims to pioneer hybrid and full electric propulsion in the small boat fishing and mariculture industries. The ALFA BETA project aligns with ALFA’s mission to address climate change and decarbonize the seafood industry.
With generous support from the Department of Energy, ALFA is poised to play a leading role in revolutionizing energy usage within the small boat commercial fishing sector. The ALFA BETA project will serve as a catalyst for developing and implementing hybrid and full electric propulsion systems, addressing the unique challenges faced by small boat fishing and mariculture operations. By embracing clean and efficient technologies, ALFA aims to reduce the fleet's carbon footprint, safeguard marine ecosystems, and promote a sustainable future for Alaska's seafood industry.
"We are honored to receive this award from the Department of Energy," said Linda Behnken, Executive Director of ALFA. "This project will allow us to pilot test hybrid and full electric propulsion in small boat fishing and mariculture operations. We will build on our work with the National Renewable Energy Labs to transition our fishing fleet toward clean energy, mitigate climate change, and ensure the long-term viability of Alaska's small boat fisheries."
The ALFA BETA project will not only contribute to decarbonization but also offer economic benefits to fishermen and mariculturists. The adoption of advanced propulsion technologies will reduce operational costs and increase fleet performance. Additionally, ALFA will collaborate with local businesses and academic institutions to create new jobs and promote technological innovation within Alaska's maritime sector.
“The ALFA BETA project embodies ALFA's commitment to decarbonizing the seafood industry and building resilience into Alaska’s small boat fishing fleet and fishing communities,” said Chandler Kemp, Technical Director for the ALFA BETA project. “By leveraging this financial support from the Department of Energy, ALFA will bring together fishermen, mariculturists, and experts in energy transition to develop cutting-edge solutions that accelerate the maritime sector's path towards a greener future.”
For more information about ALFA or the ALFA BETA project, please contact Linda Behnken at alfafishak@gmail.com or Chandler Kemp at ckemp@kempyenergetics.com.
About Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association (ALFA): The Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association (ALFA) is a non-profit organization of community-based commercial fishermen dedicated to sustainable fisheries and vibrant fishing communities. On the web at: alfafish.org
Press Contact: Linda Behnken, Executive Director, ALFA
907-738-3615 or alfafishak@gmail.com